City of Murphysboro City Council met July 20.
Here is the minutes provided by the council:
The Murphysboro, Illinois, City Council met in special session by teleconference, pursuant to its ordinances. Mayor Stephens called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. and led the council in prayer followed with the pledge of allegiance. Mayor Stephens then directed Deputy Clerk Ripley to call the roll. The roll was called with the following
Present:Barb Hughes, Jance Curry-Witzman, Russell Brown, Bill Pierson, Gary McComb, John Erbes, Dan Bratton, Mike Bastien, Gloria Campos, WJ Pittman
Absent:
Due to the nature of the meeting being held by teleconference, Mayor Stephens advised all participants to mute their phones unless speaking to assist with eliminating any background noise. Additionally, Mayor Stephens advised that public comment would be allowed following the discussion from council members.
Mayor Stephens then handed the meeting over to Alderman Erbes.
Chairman Erbes opened discussion for Community Relations items. The first item for discussion was regarding the adoption of an ordinance requiring masks. All council members received a copy of the model ordinance from the Illinois Municipal League, a draft ordinance modeled after the proposed Jackson County Ordinance as well as a Resolution of Support. Attorney Blake advised that the County has not passed an ordinance to date as they are not a home rule community. Attorney Blake further reviewed the main ideas of the draft ordinance. Each Alderman weighed in sharing their thoughts both for and against as well as inconsistent items listed in the draft ordinance and when the ordinance should be terminated. Chief Ellermeyer made a suggestion that the draft should include language for the need for signed complaints with the requirement of appearing in court to testify. Public Comment was opened with residents both in favor and against the ordinance speaking. Gary Green asked how the ordinance would address individuals with medical conditions. Denasha Oliver shared her views and felt that the fine would help to convince residents to wear a face covering. Shawn Eurich was not in favor or the ordinance citing various research regarding the effectiveness of wearing masks. Dan Bost was also against the passing of an ordinance. Darby Ortolano spoke in favor stating that most doctors agree that masks will help curtain the virus and will help to ensure everyone’s health protection. After much deliberation a motion was made.
Motion: To approve the draft Ordinance establishing regulations requiring face coverings in the City of Murphysboro with the elimination of item #4 and #6 under exemptions, adding the requirement for signed complaints and making the ordinance effective 48 hours after signing.
Motion by Alderman PiersonSecond by Alderman Curry-Witzman
Mayor Stephens called for a roll call vote.
YES – Aldermen Hughes, Curry-Witzman, Brown, Pierson, Erbes, Bratton, Bastien
NO – Aldermen McComb, Campos, Pittman
Motion Carried
The second item discussed was the request from the John A. Logan Museum to pour exposed aggregate sidewalks on Oak Street. Mayor Stephens advised that the sidewalk is being replaced as part of a grant. Mike Jones requested that an exposed aggregate sidewalk be poured as part of their vision for the Museum grounds and is willing to split the cost with the City. There was much discussion with questions on available funds in the sidewalk program, ADA compliance and concern with setting a precedent for future requests. The request did not receive a motion in favor of splitting the cost for the exposed aggregate sidewalk.
Motion: To adjourn
Motion by Alderman McCombSecond by Alderman Bratton
Mayor Stephens called for a voice vote. All were in favor.
Motion Carried
Meeting adjourned at 7:14 p.m.
http://www.murphysboro.com/government/administration/council_meetings/meeting_agendas_and_minutes.php
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